Russell Wilson has been named the starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ season opener against the Atlanta Falcons, as announced by Coach Mike Tomlin on Wednesday. Wilson, who signed a one-year contract with the Steelers in March, entered the offseason as the frontrunner for the starting position. Despite dealing with a calf injury that kept him sidelined for most of the Steelers’ training camp, he has retained his spot.
Justin Fields, acquired from the Chicago Bears in a March trade for a conditional sixth-round pick, will serve as Wilson’s backup. Fields saw significant preseason action, playing 56 snaps compared to Wilson’s 25. Fields completed 19 of 27 passes for 199 yards and led one scoring drive, while Wilson went 10 of 12 for 73 yards, also leading a scoring drive. Despite Fields’ more extensive playtime, Wilson’s efficiency and leadership in the final preseason game solidified his role as the starter.
Adding some uncertainty, Steelers starting guard Isaac Seumalo left Monday’s practice with a possible pectoral injury. He is currently undergoing tests to assess the severity of the injury, which could impact Wilson’s protection in the opener.
Wilson, a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seahawks, last played for the Denver Broncos in Week 16 of the 2023 season before being benched in the final two weeks. He ended the last season with 26 touchdowns and eight interceptions, though he was sacked 45 times. Fields, who started 13 games for the Bears last season, threw 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions and was sacked 44 times.
With Wilson leading the Steelers and Fields backing him up, fans can expect an intriguing dynamic as the team begins its season.
Is Russell Wilson the starting quarterback for the Steelers?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have selected Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback for the regular season, the organization announced on Wednesday. Wilson, who Tomlin said this summer was in the “pole” position to win the job, is formally selected over Justin Fields after the preseason.
